Nepal's Home Minister, Sudan Gurung, resigned on Wednesday (April 22), citing moral responsibility and the need for a fair investigation into concerns raised over his financial holdings. His resignation comes just 26 days after assuming office. He announced his resignation in a social media post.
'For me, ethics hold more weight than any position': Sudan Gurung
In a Facebook post announcing his resignation, Gurung said he had taken public criticism seriously and chose to step down to uphold ethical standards in public life. "I, Sudan Gurung, have been performing my duties as the Home Minister with utmost honesty since Chaitra 13, 2082 (March 26, 2026). Recently, I have taken the questions, comments, and public concerns raised by citizens regarding my shares and related matters very seriously, " he said.
Emphasising the importance of integrity, he said public trust must come before holding office. "For me, ethics hold more weight than any position, and there is no power greater than public trust. Today's 'Gen Z' movement, which demands good governance, transparency, and accountability, carries the same message: public life must be clean, and leadership must be accountable," he said.
Gurung also referred to the broader political context and sacrifices made in the country's past, saying accountability was essential when questions arise. "When questions are raised against a government built on the blood and sacrifice of my 46 brothers and sisters, the only answer is morality," Gurung said.
Announcing his decision to step down, he said the move would ensure transparency and avoid any conflict of interest. He said, "Therefore, to ensure a fair investigation into the matters concerning me and to prevent any conflict of interest while holding office, I have resigned from the post of Home Minister effective today.
He urged the citizens, media, and youth to commit to honesty and accountability in public life. "I have fulfilled my moral responsibility. Now, I appeal to my dear media friends, all Nepali brothers and sisters, and the youth: if we truly desire change, we must all stand on the path of truth, honesty, and self-purification. Information regarding where certain media personnel hold 'sweet shares' will eventually come to light. Those who aspire for 'Ram Rajya' (ideal governance) must also possess the courage to sacrifice and show moral strength," the former Nepali Home Minister said.
Corruption allegations against Sudhan Gurung
Gurung had emerged as a prominent face of the 2025 Gen Z anti-corruption movement targeting elite political structures in Nepal.
The development is being seen as a setback for the government led by Prime Minister Balen Shah, amid mounting pressure from opposition parties and civil society groups demanding accountability.
Gurung had come under scrutiny over alleged business links with industrialist Deepak Bhatt and suspected irregular investments in micro-insurance firms. Investigations reportedly flagged questionable financial transactions both before and during his tenure.
The allegations sparked protests and intensified calls for his resignation, with critics citing a potential conflict of interest and raising concerns over the integrity of his financial dealings.
Labour Minister sacked
Earlier on April 9, Nepali Prime Minister Balendra Sha sacked Deepak Kumar Sah, Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security, on disciplinary charges upon recommendation from his party.
The Prime Minister's secretariat said Sah was removed after the party found him in breach of its code of conduct and discipline.
According to the commission's study, Sah misused his office to continue his wife, Junu Shrestha, as a member of the Health Insurance Board, a position which had remained largely inactive for a long time. The commission had submitted its report to the party on Wednesday, recommending action.
